God’s Own Faithfulness

July 25, 2010

Background Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 3
Lesson Passage: 2 Thessalonians 3:1 – 15

How do you close out a letter that was written to encourage its recipients to endure suffering, work to support their needs, and be aware that the end has not yet come? Paul simply reminded them of God’s faithfulness. In spite of situations, basic necessities of life, and relentless hopelessness, God is still faithful in the midst of it all. God knows where we are and what we are going through. He also knows how much of it we can bear. He is faithful to his promises to never ever leave us and to always provide the strength we need in times of testing.

Because of these assurances, Paul then requested the Thessalonians to pray for his success in preaching and teaching the word of God. His ministry of teaching and preaching is what the apostle had to offer anyone that would endure like persecution. Paul knew all too well that everyone is not saved and therefore some are predisposed towards evil. He requested prayer that God would not allow them to hinder his work. On the other hand, he reminded the Thessalonians that God can be counted on to establish them and to protect them from committing or falling prey to evil. This is part of God’s faithfulness. Paul trusted God to keep them even as he kept him and his companions in the ministry. We are not to depend on our abilities but instead we should look to God to do the keeping. We play a role by not keeping company with those that do not intend to do right.

Paul and his companions in the ministry tried to set the right example for the Thessalonians to follow. He encouraged them to be imitators of them. When we are spiritually immature, it is beneficial to have more matured Christians we can pattern ourselves after. Likewise, we are to strive towards spiritual maturity so that we too can be Christian role models for others to follow. One example we should set is that of physical labor. Able bodied people should work; they should be rewarded for their labor that they might attend to their needs and not have to depend on others. This is a good example to set. The able bodied that are unemployed become busy bodies and stir up trouble. They should be noted and avoided. Don’t “buddy up” with those who walk contrary to the word of God. They are not your enemy but you should pray for them as your brother or sister in the Lord because they can lead you astray through their carnality or worldly living.

Finally, God is the Lord of peace and he is the one who is able to give us continuous peace.


Robert C. Hudson
July 14, 2010